From the brilliant mind of Kang Yunsung, the acclaimed screenwriter behind Big Bet, comes Low Life, a high-stakes series where a group of down-on-their-luck opportunists are about to have their lives turned upside down.
Imagine this: whispered rumors of unimaginable riches discovered at the bottom of the sea. What happens next? A cutthroat race for the ultimate prize, where every man (and woman) is out for themselves.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of 1970s Korea, “Low Life” introduces us to the unlikely duo of Oh Gwanseok (played by the incomparable Ryu Seungryong) and his nephew Oh Heedong (Yang Sejong of Doona! fame). These two have spent the better part of their lives chasing one “get-rich-quick” scheme after another. But when concrete whispers begin to spread about an ancient treasure ship lying off the Korean coast, their biggest gamble yet begins.
They’ll have to race against time and a whole host of other ruthless opportunists to recover the sunken treasure and finally claim the lavish lives they’ve always envisioned. But with danger and competition lurking around every corner, will this uncle-nephew team truly be able to salvage their fortune in time, or will their dreams sink before they even begin?
Ryu Seung Ryong leads the charge as Oh Kwan-seok, a street-smart conman scraping by on small-time scams with his nephew. When a shady antique dealer tips him off about porcelain treasures buried underwater, he rounds up a crew of equally money-hungry partners and sails toward Mokpo, each member harboring secret motives. What begins as a hopeful heist spirals into a high-stakes human drama, promising suspense, unexpected twists, and plenty of retro charm.
In newly released stills, Ryu nails the gritty 70s vibe with a wide-collared shirt and sleek crop haircut, exuding charisma and calculated intensity. His forward-leaning stance and razor-sharp stare hint at the layered persona of Oh Kwan-seok—a man willing to gamble it all, but always with a hidden card up his sleeve. With tension simmering just beneath the surface, the character teases a thrilling ride through murky waters—both literal and emotional.
Joining the already stellar cast are Lim Soojung (Melancholia, Single in Seoul) as Yang Jungsook, adding another layer of intrigue to this gripping tale.
Jungsook is the sharp and ambitious owner of Heungbaek Industries. A no ordinary businesswoman, she possesses an uncanny knack for handling money, making her an indispensable confidante and assistant to Heungbaek Industries Chairman Cheon Hwang-sik (Jang Gwang).
Yet, beneath her reliable exterior lies a strong undercurrent of personal ambition. Viewers are eager to see how Jungsook’s exceptional financial instincts will drive her actions and shape the story.
Low Life is not only written but also directed by Kang Yunsung, ensuring a consistent and captivating vision. This exciting 11-part series kicks off with a bang, featuring a three-episode premiere on July 16. Following the initial launch, two new episodes will be released each week, building suspense until an exhilarating two-part finale on August 13.